Your First Home is Within Reach

Buying your first home is an exciting milestone, but we understand it can also feel overwhelming. At Southeast Mortgage, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. With affordable mortgage solutions, flexible loan options, and expert support, we make homeownership possible—so you can stop renting and start building equity in a place to call your own.

Get Started

Why Buy Instead of Rent?

Build Equity – Every mortgage payment brings you one step closer to owning your home.
Predictable Monthly Payments – Say goodbye to rent increases and hello to stability.
Tax Benefits – Potential deductions for mortgage interest and property taxes.
A Place to Call Your Own – Personalize your space without landlord restrictions.

Stop Renting, Start Owning!

Feeling Uncertain About the Process?

You’re not alone! Many first-time buyers have questions about credit scores, down payments, and mortgage options. That’s why we take the time to explain everything clearly, answer your questions, and help you find the best loan for your situation. Our goal is to make the process as simple and stress-free as possible—so you can focus on finding the home that’s right for you. Simply Tap Begin the Process, provide us some basic information and we can help you every step along the way to owning your first home.

Begin The Process

Home Loan Highlights for First-Time Buyers

✔️ Low or No Down Payment Options

One of the biggest challenges first-time buyers face is saving for a down payment. Fortunately, several loan programs allow you to buy a home with little to no money down. FHA Loans: Require as little as 3.5% down, making homeownership more achievable. Conventional Loans: Some programs offer 3% down options for qualified first-time buyers.USDA Loans: Offer 0% down for eligible rural homebuyers. VA Loans: Available to eligible military members and veterans with no down payment required. Down Payment Assistance Programs: Grants and forgivable loans may be available to help cover upfront costs.

✔️ Flexible Credit Requirements – We work with a variety of credit profiles.

Not everyone has perfect credit, and that’s okay! Many first-time homebuyer programs are designed with flexibility in mind. FHA Loans allow credit scores as low as 580. At Southeast Mortgage we offer credit coaching and can help guide you through improving your credit score to qualify for better rates. Even if your credit isn’t perfect, there are still options to put you on a path to homeownership!

✔️ Assistance with Closing Costs

One of the biggest concerns for first-time buyers is the cost of closing, which includes fees for appraisals, inspections, and legal paperwork. Fortunately, there are options to help reduce or cover these expenses including Seller Contributions and Down Payment Assistance Programs. Ask our team if you would like to know more about either option. By taking advantage of these options, you can lower the amount of cash needed upfront and make buying your first home even more affordable.

✔️ Variety of Loan Options

Every homebuyer’s financial situation is unique, which is why we offer multiple loan options to fit your needs. FHA Loans – Ideal for those with lower credit scores and smaller down payments. Conventional Loans – Best for buyers with strong credit who want more flexible loan terms. USDA Loans – Great for those buying in rural areas with 0% down payment options. VA Loans – Exclusive to military members and veterans with no down payment and no PMI. Down Payment Assistance Programs – Additional support for first-time buyers who need help covering upfront costs. We work with you to find the best mortgage solution so you can buy a home with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

The amount required for a down payment depends on the type of loan you choose. Many first-time homebuyers qualify for low or no down payment options:

  • FHA Loans: As little as 3.5% down with a credit score of 580 or higher.
  • Conventional Loans: Some programs allow as little as 3% down for qualified buyers.
  • Down Payment Assistance: Various programs can help cover your upfront costs.

Your credit score plays a role in determining your loan eligibility and interest rate:

  • FHA Loans: Typically require a 580+ credit score (or as low as 500 with a 10% down payment).
  • Conventional Loans: Generally require a 620+ credit score, though higher scores qualify for better rates.
  • Other Programs: Some state and local assistance programs may have more flexible credit requirements.
  • FHA Loans – Ideal for those with lower credit scores or limited savings.
  • Conventional Loans – Great for those with good credit and stable income.
  • USDA Loans – No down payment required for homes in eligible rural areas.
  • VA Loans – Available to eligible military service members and veterans with no down payment.
  • Down Payment Assistance Programs – Grants and other programs that help with upfront costs

Yes! Many programs allow sellers or lenders to contribute toward closing costs. In some cases, you can also roll certain closing costs into your loan. Additionally, down payment assistance programs may help cover some of these expenses.

Get Started

Quote icon

This is my 4th time using Southeast Mortgage’s services. Amazing personalized customer service and seamless process. Thank you to the Southeast team, nothing less than excellence.”

Kenji T.Client

Quote icon

The entire Southeast Mortgage team was absolutely phenomenal. They ensured we walked into closing fully prepared, resulting in a smooth encounter. I would most definitely recommend Southeast Mortgage to all my friends”

Eddy W.Purchased a Home

Quote icon

The team at Southeast Mortgage has been doing loans for my clients for several years. Their team is very professional and never lets us down. They always deliver outstanding customer service and competitive rates. I would highly recommend them to anyone who is looking for an experience team to get the job done!”

Team BlythewoodRealtor

Quote icon

Great team of professionals. Excellent service, every step of the loan process runs smoothly and everyone is willing to go the extra mile to assure closings are done in a timely manner. I will continue referring clients, family and friends to Southeast Mortgage.”

Raquel B.Builder